Me & 20 Awesome Travelers & Their Favorite Valentine Retreats

Looking for what to do this Valentine’s Day for the perfect couple’s retreat? If you are looking for a weekend getaway at classic romantic hotels and resorts or cozy seclusion from the rest of the world with starry views or an ancient gardens to just soak the nature or an adventurous trip or whatever your romantic heart desires, we have covered almost everything out here, which will make a perfect Valentine experience that you ever dream about no matter whatever is your taste!

My favorite Valentine’s Retreat: Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort,  Florida, USA

If you’re looking for an adventurous and enchanting getaway and dream about a perfect Valentine Retreat, this is a place in ‘Sunshine State’ where serenity meets tranquility and you will experience an ultimate luxury with their “Amelia Amore” experience where romance is in the air!  Incredible panoramic views of Atlantic Ocean from the luxurious oceanfront suite and In-Room Champagne Bubble Bar that feature customizable champagne station to create unique flavors such as strawberry, basil, mango and mint to mesmerize your senses. Go for romantic Sunset Paddle Board tour, Beach Horseback ride with Kelly Seahorse Ranch, Sunset Cruise with Amelia Angler Outfitters and Private Dinner on Ocean Links Golf Course to make it the most memorable getaway of your life. The lovebirds can also experience Swedish Massage in the midst of mother nature that not only relaxes the body but soothes the soul!

And now here is our awesome travel community to help you with their favorite Valentine getaways from around the world.

1) Olga Maria from Dream in Heels: Sparkling Hill Resort, British Columbia, Canada

It is a destination resort located in the Okanagan Valley Region of British Columbia, Canada where you can turn off your phone, live in the moment, and immerse yourself in a total relaxation experience. In this healing crystal hotel & spa, you will only have to get dressed to go to dinner. Since this is a resort, you can spend all day in a robe, even to go down for breakfast. It is such a romantic place, where you will be surrounded by crystals (including a crystal fireplace) that emanate light, vibrancy and intimacy, enhancing the most impressive view – where it feels like you can go outside and walk on the clouds.

2) Simone from The Aussie Flashpacker: Casa Angelina Lifestyle Hotel, Praiano, Italy

Casa Angelina Lifestyle hotel is an exquisite and a one of a kind hotel that allows you to experience the ultimate in bliss. Casa Angelina is perched on the cliffs of quiet, lovely Praiano is situated between the popular Amalfi Coast towns of Positano and Amalfi. It is the perfect, romantic retreat for couples and every window or balcony of the hotel offers the most majestic views of the sea. I couldn’t image a more perfect, luxurious and romantic destination to spend Valentines Day.

 3) Dannielle from While I’m Young and Skinny: Marmadukes Town House Hotel, York 

My ideal Valentine retreat is the grand old English city of York, where the stunning Marmadukes Town House Hotel makes for a date night to remember. Let the romance commence with a moonlit stroll around The Shambles then call into a cosy pub on the way back to your four poster bed. 

4) Rachel Jones from Hippie in Heels: Alila Diwa, Goa, India

I met my boyfriend in Goa while backpacking in India and here I am 3 years later, having moved in with him! We travel all over the world, but Goa will always have a special place. It’s luxury on steroids with giant infinity pools overlooking paddy fields of South India, 24/7 delicious room service, giant beds and a bathtub they fill up with bubbles and rose petals during turn-down service. It’s our Valentine’s getaway every year. They arrange starlight dinners on the beach or in their tree house.

5) Hannah Lukaszewicz from Getting Stamped: Stanley Safari Lodge, Livingstone, Zambia 

My favorite Valentines retreat would be under the stars in Africa hearing the lions roaring with my loved one. In Livingstone, Zambia this is possible from a tent or in luxury at Stanley Safari Lodge. There is something magical about being in an open concept room where your open to the elements but in a luxurious room complete with a butler. 

6) Eileen Cotter Wright from Crooked Flight & Pure Wander: Jade Mountain Resort, St. Lucia

The Jade Mountain Resort in St. Lucia is perfection. Uniquely designed architecture has all rooms facing outward, garnering sweeping views of the craggy Pitons. You two can lounge in your private infinity pool while sipping some bubbly at sunset. Fresh cuisine, fruity drinks and volcanic beaches round out the unforgettable Valentine’s Day experience!

7) Mar Pages from Once in a Lifetime Journey: NamibRand Stargazing & Sunrise at Sossusvlei Sand Dunes, Namibia

Sossusvlei is a salt and clay pan surrounded by the tallest sand dunes, some reaching 400 meter high. Drive in at sunrise to see the sun come up from behind the orange and pink dunes. Stay at Sossusvlei Desert Lodge to see a blanket of stars in one of only 3 Gold rated Dark Sky Reserves where light pollution is so minimal that you will be able to see stars you didn’t know existed. Even better, join the lodge’s astronomer for a tour of the galaxies and nebulae that surround Earth before snuggling in bed under a sun roof from where you can continue counting stars.

8) Jennifer Melroy from Made all the Difference: Qasr Al Sarab, Abu Dhabi, UAE

The Qasr Al Sarab resort rises out of the sand like a desert palace.  Al Sarab is located in the heart of the Empty Quarter of the Liwa Desert.  With architecture taken straight out of Arabian Nights, the resort has an excellent mix of private romantic experiences such as dining in the desert under the stars to early morning dune bashing.

9) Cathy Merrifield from Roar Loud: Sandals Resort, St. Lucia

St. Lucia was the perfect romantic getaway.  Being pampered at an all-inclusive Sandals resort with a perfect beach was heavenly.  By day we snorkeled, sailed and lounged at the pool bar.  At night we dined by candlelight beachside with gorgeous sunsets.  Nightly we arrived at our bed decorated with flower petals, the perfect romantic end to every night.

10) Aileen from I am Aileen: El Nido Resort, Palawan, Philippines 

Escape and spend Valentines in Southeast Asia’s most underrated destination — the Philippines! Once there, the tropical paradise of El Nido Resorts in Palawan is a great place to nestle in as you let love bloom in its breathtaking villas, turquoise blue waters, white sand beaches and dramatic limestone formations.

 11) Shandos Cleaver from Travelnuity:  Maya Ubud Resort, Bali, Indonesia

I would love to return to the Maya Ubud Resort in Bali, where I spent my honeymoon. Surrounded by lush rain forest, the resort radiates tranquility. Best of all, my husband and I had a couple’s massage at the Spa, next to the river who’s constant gurgling lulled us to sleep.

12) Melissa & Deynece from Deux Bella: Deer Valley, Park City, Utah, USA

Spend the day skiing, afterward relax at the spa, take a sleigh ride through the snow and enjoy a dinner by the fireplace at one the award-winning restaurants. Nestled in the gorgeous mountains but minutes from the airport it has something for everyone!

13) Kiki Baxter from Text Me When You Land: La Cocoteraie Ecolodge, Gili Trawangan, Indonesia

Just steps from the beautiful sunset beaches of Gili Trawangan (Gili T for short), enjoy a cozy romantic glamping experience at La Cocoteraie! This is where adventure meets luxury! Enjoy a cold drink and hand towel upon arrival, where the concierge will greet you (from your horse and buggy arrival) and arrange your breakfast selection, map out the island, and escort you to your tent

14) Dr. Cacinda Maloney from Points and Travel: Monte Carlo, Monaco 

Three little words: Monte Carlo, Monaco. Book spa experiences for two at the Thermes-Marin Spa, just down the hill from the Casino Monte Carlo. Lover’s bodies will be slathered in natural oils with genuine 24k gold flakes. Sweethearts will then be glowing afterward on their photo shoot with Flytographer to ensure the memory of their day lasts forever Perfection.   

15) Lies Veldeman from Non-Stop Destination: Sunset from Lion’s Head, Cape Town, South Africa

After hiking up Lion’s head, you’re not only silenced by the gorgeous views over the city, ocean and Table Mountain, but the sunset covering everything in an orange glow with wisps of fog slowly rolling in over the ocean make this a stunning romantic spot. Don’t forget a bottle of wine!

16) Liz Villasenor from Lizzie Meets World: Sagada, Philippines

Sagada is a charming, secluded town in the Mountain Province of the Philippines. It is perfect for couples who love adventure and the outdoors. You can get your hearts racing with spelunking and trekking, or have long lazy days of lemon pies, homemade yogurt, and fresh mountain air.

 17) Sabrina Barbante from In My Suitcase: Timisoara, Romania

I’ve just come back from a rainy and snowy Timisoara. This was a travel gift from my boyfriend and we went there together. You know what? I think that east Europe cities are the most lovely and romantic cities in winter. And you know, it’s the city of a revolution and of crazy, wild and difficult times. Now it’s blooming and it’s going to be the capital of European culture in 2021. An amazing love story between this city and Europe, don’t you think so? Timisoara, like other east Europe cities, has several thermal baths… What’s better for a romantic weekend when the weather outside is frightful?

18) Bobbi Gould from 1 Frugal Travels: Tulum, Mexico

This romantic retreat may be a departure from the standard Valentine ideal, but it’s exceptional nonetheless.  In the eccentric city of Tulum, Mexico, take a stroll along the Caribbean beach, dine on authentic Mexican food, explore ancient Mayan temples, and experience the eccentricities of a distinct culture all set to the backdrop of a dreamy sunset!  

 19) Amie Cuhaciyan: Dolores Park, San Francisco, USA

For some much needed time away from being a mom San Francisco’s refinement is my go-to spot for Valentine’s Day. It begins simply by picking up a delicious breakfast at Craftsman and Wolves to take our pastries and coffee to nearby Dolores Park.  I love that the city is full of wine, chocolate, and culinary delights making indulgence easy.

  20) Geri Vladeva from When Woman Travels: Gallery Lafayette, Paris, France 

Gallery Lafayette is one of the most romantic places in Paris. It is not just place for shopping, it is a universe of magic. Have you read the novel “The Ladies’ Paradise” by Emile Zola? If yes you will understand me. In this five floors store dreams, desires and hopes meet every day.

Do share your favorite Valentine’s  Retreat in the comments below?

Happy Traveling!,
Ana

P.S.- This post also got published in Huff Post, US. You can find it here.